5 New Fitness Crazes That Actually Work

Bored of your ol' workout routine? We feel you. But, with all the fitness fads that seem to appear (and disappear) faster than that stud on the treadmill, it's hard to tell which classes are actually worth a shot.

So, we've done the heavy lifting for you and compiled a range of classes for every kind of fitness connoisseur — whether you're an anti-gym enthusiast, weight-lifting aficionado, or anything and everything in between. From exercising in a heated pod to bouncing on a trampoline (you'll feel five again — in the best way possible, of course), we guarantee something on this list will get you excited about working out on the daily. Ahead, the five best, most effective workout crazes on the scene.

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Photo: Courtesy of Iobella.

The Trend: Heated Pod Machine Why It Works: Created in Europe over 40 years ago and now gaining momentum in South America (hello land of Victoria's Secret models), the pod workout has finally made its way to Lala Land!

Iobella, the first gym in the United States to use these pods in a structured workout, uses plexiglass machinery and workout routines from South America as its focal point. Women lay inside the glass pod with their heads sticking out or in (their choice) and exercise with weight pulleys and resistance bands in 98 degrees for 30 minutes.

These heated machines work to activate your metabolism and circulation, so you burn more than in a regular workout. After the tough part, you can sit in triple oxygen pods
for a detoxification process. All we can say is "wow"!

The Trend: Aerial FitnessWhy It Works: The aerial fitness trend started gaining momentum last year, but it's definitely not going anywhere anytime soon. Aerial yoga, such as the classes at AntiGravity Fitness, and other circus-performer-inspired classes at places like Cirque School, strengthen the core, increase flexibility and upper-body strength, and give you a greater body awareness.

The Trend:PoundWhy It Works: These workout classes are truly a lesson in rhythm as much as anything else, turning your entire body into an instrument. Pound uses weighted drumsticks (called Ripstix) to create a full-body toning experience that you'll love.

By combining Pilates, cardio, plyometrics, and isometrics movements, Pound's 45-minute class will burn 600-900 calories (yes, we're serious). Each song is carefully calibrated with interval peaks and extended fat-burning sequences, giving you the most effective workout in the shortest amount of time. By the end of the class, you'll have accomplished over 15,000 reps, finished over 30 extended interval peaks, and zipped through over 70 techniques, while still having fun and connecting with your body in a unique way.

Available at:Momentum by Iron, 1919 Broadway Street; 310-264-9800.

Crunch, 8000 Sunset Boulevard; 323-654-4550.

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Photo: Courtesy of SurfBody.

The Trend:SurfBody FitnessWhy It Works:
Ever been jealous of a surfer's body? We're assuming that answer is yes. Well, lucky for you, SurfBody is all about getting away from traditional workouts and challenging your body in new ways using surf techniques. Every exercise works to engage your core and shock your muscles into changing for good.

The Trend: Trampoline Workouts Why It Works: Eager to embrace your inner child while still getting a killer workout? Well, then trampoline fitness is something you have to try! These classes are quickly becoming a foolproof way to exercise and transform your body, with indoor trampoline parks like Sky Zone leading the way. Try the facility's SkyRobics class, which combines core strengthening, calisthenics, and aerobics.